Don’t Let Customs Kill Your Vacation Vibe: Global Entry vs. Mobile Passport Control
The worst part of any vacation? The moment it ends.
You’ve just spent a week living your best life—sipping cocktails on a pool deck, exploring ancient ruins, and forgetting what a "Zoom meeting" is. But then, reality hits. You land back in the U.S., tired and possibly a little sunburned, only to be greeted by a customs line that snakes around the terminal.
At The Cruise Boys™, we believe your vacation experience shouldn't end until you're actually home. That’s why we want to talk about two travel hacks that will get you off the plane (or ship!) and through customs in record time: Global Entry and its best-kept secret alternative, Mobile Passport Control (MPC).
Here is everything you need to know to skip the line and get home faster.
🥇 The Gold Standard: Global Entry
If you travel internationally even once a year, Global Entry is the ultimate VIP pass.
What is it? Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to receive expedited clearance upon arrival into the United States. Instead of waiting in the general population line, you head to a dedicated kiosk, scan your face, and walk right out. No paperwork. No waiting.
The Perks:
Speed: We’ve timed it—we are often from the plane door to the baggage claim in less than 10 minutes.
TSA PreCheck Included: This is the real game-changer. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, which means you also get to speed through security when you depart. Shoes stay on, laptop stays in the bag.
Cruise Friendly: Major cruise ports (like Port Everglades and Port Miami) now have dedicated Global Entry lanes, making disembarkation a breeze.
The Cost (and how to get it for free): The application fee is $120 for a five-year membership. However, you might not have to pay a dime. Many premium travel credit cards offer a statement credit to cover this fee every 4-5 years. Check your wallet for cards like:
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Capital One Venture X
And many others! Check your card benefits.
The Catch: You have to apply, undergo a background check, and complete an in-person interview. It takes a little effort upfront, but for five years of VIP treatment, it’s worth it.
📱 The Free Alternative: Mobile Passport Control (MPC)
Don't have a premium credit card? Don’t want to pay the $120 fee? Or maybe you just haven't had time to schedule an interview?
Enter Mobile Passport Control (MPC). This is the travel industry’s best-kept secret, and it is completely free.
What is it? MPC is a free app from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that streamlines your entry process. It allows eligible travelers to submit their passport and travel information using a secure app on their smartphone before they even get in line.
Who is it for?
U.S. Citizens
Lawful Permanent Residents
Canadian B1/B2 visitors
Returning Visa Waiver Program travelers (from 41 countries) who have visited the U.S. before.
How does it work?
Download: Before your trip, download the CBP One™ app (available on Apple and Google Play stores).
Submit: Upon landing (or docking), open the app, select your arrival port/airport, take a selfie, and answer the standard customs questions.
Skip the Line: The app will generate a QR code. Look for the designated "Mobile Passport Control" line in the customs hall. It is almost always significantly shorter than the general line.
The Pros:
It’s Free: Zero cost.
No Interview: You don't need pre-approval. You just download and go.
Family Friendly: You can submit a single transaction for your whole household.
The Cons:
It does not include TSA PreCheck (you’ll still need to take your shoes off at security when you leave).
It is currently available at 33 U.S. airports and 4 seaports, so check if your arrival point participates.
🏆 The Verdict: Which one should you choose?
Get Global Entry if: You travel more than once a year, you want the added benefit of TSA PreCheck for domestic flights, or your credit card foots the bill.
Use Mobile Passport Control if: You rarely travel internationally, you don't want to pay the $120 fee, or you have a trip coming up soon and don't have time to wait for a Global Entry interview.
⚓ Ready to Book Your Next Adventure?
Whether you have Global Entry or are rocking the MPC app, you need a trip on the books to use them!
The Cruise Boys™ are here to help you find the perfect sailing, the best rates, and the right perks. Contact us today to start planning.
Sea More. Cruise More.
The Cruise Boys™
Info@TheCruiseBoys.com